JRS22 wrote:Here it is just noon and I've already had 3 tea sessions. My new greens from Jing Tea Shop taste excellent brewed in my Hong Il pot, even though I'm not finished experimenting with the exact parameters needed for this pot as compared to a gaiwan. Then I had the penultimate session of 2011 Sencha Otsuusan Karigane from O-Cha. A bag of the 2012 is on the way, along with 2 gyos so I'll probably have just enough time to air out the canisters before the 2012 teas arrive.

Tomorrow I'm going to take photos to share of the TPHK. It's as beautiful as it's delicious!

Tai Ping Hou Kui photos, I cannot wait!

I recently obtained 2 of my fave 4 Chinese greens from an "unlikely source." Although pretty inexpensive, they are both pretty good, I am surprised actually.

Long Jing and Luan Gua Pian are currently back on the menu. It has actually been several years since I have purchased a Chinese green (however thanks mostly to generous TCers, I have managed to have some nice selections from time to time), but I may have to change that.

This is a sensitive one be gentle! (beware, if you screw up the first two infusions there is really no going back bitterness wise), but taking care with it does have its many rewards. Very fairly priced. I do thoroughly enjoy it now for a more contemplative slow session, taking in all the bodily effects and wonderful smells of previous infusions as the water for the next steep cools. Also the visual transformation the darker dry leaf takes as it springs out of its slumber into something bright and lively is fun to watch

Sadly, after the first day I wasn't able to obtain the same vegetal sweetness that was so apparent the first day. I tried 150*, 165* and 180*, gaiwans and teapots, but could not achieve a satisfying brew. Maybe I've just been spoiled by the intensity of Japanese greens. Fortunately I have a new supply of those for consolation - my sencha otsuusan as well as 2 unopened bags of gyo.

Opened up the last shincha I had in the TeaFridge, Hibiki-an's Shincha Super Premium which IMHO shows more promise than the near buck a gram Pinnicle Shincha which failed to impress through the entire bag.

Sencha on hand is dwindling, but fortunately some really good sencha will arrive on Monday, hopefully.

Thanks Xell. I just got a pair of small (studio wise) strobes from a friend. One is just above 'eye level' with the tea, camera left with a small soft box. The other is high above on camera right, aimed down, shot through a white umbrella for a big, soft fill light.

Thanks Xell. I just got a pair of small (studio wise) strobes from a friend. One is just above 'eye level' with the tea, camera left with a small soft box. The other is high above on camera right, aimed down, shot through a white umbrella for a big, soft fill light.

I see, thanks for info, thought it's at least 2 sources. White porcelain and dark tea sure not that easy to get right in photo. I'm struggling a bit with only one flash on quite crude stand, not flexible enough. Once have more resources to spend will get second one. Will be posting more tea photos then

And not to be completely OT here. Finally opened a can of matcha Seiju. I think i give a try at koicha again. For first try made usucha with 5 scoops and 90ml, great balance of flavors. Difficult to put more in words. I'll be sure to take some photos of my koicha attempt